Kentucky Kingdom gives sneak peek just weeks before reopening

Kentucky Kingdom is making a comeback. The new and improved park opens in a month and a half.

The park entrance just needed some new siding and a fresh coat of paint, but the real transformation took place inside. Crews are still working and they'll be doing that until May 24, when the park opens.

Wednesday marked a milestone in the park's progress. Crews placed the final section of the track on the park's newest and tallest roller coaster, "Lighting Run."

"It is the first roller coaster we've put in in 17 years here at Kentucky Kingdom," said Ed Hart with Kentucky Kingdom.

Riders can expect super speeds and a steep, 100-foot drop.

"There's some real sharp turns (and) bumps," said John Mulcahy with Kentucky Kingdom. "And look at this turn here -- you're at about a 121-degree angle coming around the bend. It is an exciting ride."

It's just one of 20 new attractions at the park, like "Fear Fall." Riders ride up to the top then drop 13 stories.

And when visitors hit the water park, they'll really notice a difference. It's twice the size it used to be. Some of the new attractions there are a ride called "Tornado" and a renovated "Mile High Falls."

"That ride has not operated in seven years," said Mulcahy.

The park hasn't operated in about five, but come May, 54 rides will be running.

Visitors will need their map handy to navigate.

The park opens on May 24. General admission for adults is $44.95. The price is $34.95 for children, seniors and military. Season passes are on sale for $59.95.

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